July 12th 2024.
As James Anderson, the legendary fast bowler from England, approaches his final days as an international cricketer, he reflects on his illustrious career and the opponents he faced. Amongst all the greats he has bowled to, it was the battles against Sachin Tendulkar that stood out the most for Anderson.
As he gears up to play his 188th Test for England against the West Indies at the iconic Lord's cricket ground, Anderson knows that this will be his last appearance in the national team. After this game, he will officially retire from international cricket. But before bidding adieu, he takes a moment to reminisce about his encounters with Tendulkar, whom he has dismissed nine times in his career.
Despite his success against the Indian master blaster, Anderson admits that he never had a set plan to bowl against him. Tendulkar's exceptional skills and ability to read the game made it challenging for Anderson to strategize. "The best batter I would have to say is Sachin Tendulkar," Anderson shared in an interview with Sky Sports. "I don't remember having a specific game plan against Sachin Tendulkar. Once he came on, I would just think that I cannot bowl a bad ball here, he was that kind of player."
Tendulkar, who represented India for 24 years, is considered one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. Similarly, Anderson's career spanning 23 years has made him a role model for fast bowlers. He recently became the first fast bowler to take 700 wickets in Test cricket, achieving this feat during the India tour earlier this year. Both Anderson and Tendulkar have set high standards in their respective roles and have had a significant impact on the game.
Despite being opponents on the field, Anderson and Tendulkar had mutual respect for each other. "You just try on bowling your best ball, top of off-stump, the whole time and hope he misses a straight one," Anderson recalls his approach to bowling against Tendulkar. "In England, he might nick the odd one, but generally, I'd try and get him out LBW early." Anderson admits that it was not easy to dismiss Tendulkar, who was known for his ability to score runs against any team.
In their encounters, both Anderson and Tendulkar had their share of success. While Anderson took 149 wickets in 39 Tests against India, Tendulkar scored 2,535 runs in 32 Tests against England at an average of 51.73, with seven centuries and 13 fifties. The two legends have left a lasting impact on the game, and their rivalry will be remembered for years to come.
As Anderson looks back on his memorable moments, he also recalls one of his proudest achievements - his 81 runs against India at Nottingham in July 2014. "I am most proud of getting 81 at Trent Bridge against India. I probably should pick a wicket or bowling performance, but getting 81 with the bat, it is just something I still can't believe I have done," he shares. It was a moment of glory for Anderson, who is known primarily for his bowling skills, and it will be etched in his memory forever.
As he prepares for his last game, Anderson knows that it will be an emotional moment for him. But he is grateful for the opportunities and experiences that cricket has given him, including the chance to compete against legends like Sachin Tendulkar. And as he hangs up his boots, Anderson's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of fast bowlers.
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